U.S. patent number 11,345,423 [Application Number 16/314,034] was granted by the patent office on 2022-05-31 for data collection device with removable battery pack.
This patent grant is currently assigned to Ford Global Technologies, LLC. The grantee listed for this patent is Ford Global Technologies, LLC. Invention is credited to Sudipto Aich, Zachary David Nelson, Chih-Wei Tang.
United States Patent |
11,345,423 |
Nelson , et al. |
May 31, 2022 |
Data collection device with removable battery pack
Abstract
An activity tracker includes a device that includes a sensor
component, a radio, a housing, and a removable portion. The sensor
component is configured to obtain bicycle route information based
on one or more sensors. The radio is configured to wirelessly
communicate the bicycle route information to a remote computing
device. The housing includes at least a portion of the sensor
component and the radio. The removable portion includes a battery.
The removable portion and the housing, when coupled, create a
watertight seal to protect electronic components of the device.
Inventors: |
Nelson; Zachary David
(Dearborn, MI), Aich; Sudipto (Dearborn, MI), Tang;
Chih-Wei (Dearborn, MI) |
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Ford Global Technologies, LLC |
Dearborn |
MI |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Ford Global Technologies, LLC
(Dearborn, MI)
|
Family
ID: |
60786957 |
Appl.
No.: |
16/314,034 |
Filed: |
June 30, 2016 |
PCT
Filed: |
June 30, 2016 |
PCT No.: |
PCT/US2016/040407 |
371(c)(1),(2),(4) Date: |
December 28, 2018 |
PCT
Pub. No.: |
WO2018/004601 |
PCT
Pub. Date: |
January 04, 2018 |
Prior Publication Data
|
|
|
|
Document
Identifier |
Publication Date |
|
US 20210221462 A1 |
Jul 22, 2021 |
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G01C
21/3626 (20130101); G16H 20/30 (20180101); G01C
21/26 (20130101); B62J 45/414 (20200201); B62J
45/20 (20200201); B62J 11/04 (20200201); B62J
43/30 (20200201); B62H 5/20 (20130101); B62J
11/00 (20130101) |
Current International
Class: |
B62H
5/20 (20060101); B62J 43/30 (20200101); B62J
11/00 (20200101); B62J 45/414 (20200101); B62J
11/04 (20200101); B62J 45/20 (20200101); G16H
20/30 (20180101); G01C 21/36 (20060101) |
References Cited
[Referenced By]
U.S. Patent Documents
Primary Examiner: Lonsberry; Hunter B
Assistant Examiner: Greene; Daniel L
Attorney, Agent or Firm: Hicks; Brandon Eversheds Sutherland
(US) LLP
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A device comprising: a sensor component configured to obtain
bicycle route information based on one or more sensors; a radio
configured to wirelessly communicate the bicycle route information
to a remote computing device; a housing comprising at least a
portion of the sensor component and the radio; and a removable
portion comprising a battery, wherein the removable portion and the
housing, when coupled, create a watertight seal between the
removable portion and the housing to protect electronic components
of the device.
2. The device of claim 1, wherein the housing comprises a mounting
member for mounting the housing to a bicycle.
3. The device of claim 2, wherein the removable portion is
removable from the housing when the housing is mounted to the
bicycle.
4. The device of claim 2, wherein the mounting member comprises one
or more holes or slots passing through the housing and wherein the
one or more holes or slots are spaced to match a bottle cage
mounting location on a bicycle.
5. The device of claim 2, wherein the mounting member comprises one
or more holes, slots, or grooves for receiving a zip tie for
attachment to a frame of the bicycle.
6. The device of claim 1, wherein the watertight seal protects one
or more of: electrical connectors for providing electrical
communication between the removable portion and the housing; and a
charging port on the removable portion for charging the
battery.
7. The device of claim 1, wherein the watertight seal is formed
between the housing and the removable portion at least in part by
an elastomer material on one or more of the housing and the
removable portion.
8. The device of claim 1, further comprising one or more of a
microcontroller, a positioning system receiver, an accelerometer, a
thermometer, a compass, and a barometer.
9. The device of claim 1, wherein the radio is configured to
communicate the bicycle route information to a remote computing
device comprising a portable computing device traveling with the
bicycle.
10. The device of claim 1, wherein the radio is configured to
communicate the bicycle route information to a remote computing
device via a portable computing device traveling with the bicycle,
wherein the portable computing device communicates the bicycle
route information to a server or computing device over a wireless
network.
11. A human powered transportation vehicle comprising: an activity
tracker, the activity tracker comprising: a sensor component
configured to obtain route information for the human powered
transportation vehicle; a radio configured to wirelessly
communicate the route information to a remote computing device; a
housing comprising at least a portion of the sensor component and
the radio, a coupling member that extends from the housing, and a
coupling interface, wherein the coupling member includes one or
more locking members for engaging and locking a removable portion,
and wherein the coupling interface includes electrical contacts for
connecting with a battery in the removable portion; and the
removable portion comprising a battery, wherein the removable
portion and the housing, when coupled, create a watertight seal
between the removable portion and the housing to protect electronic
components of the activity tracker.
12. The human powered transportation vehicle of claim 11, wherein
the housing comprises a mounting member for securing the housing to
the human powered transportation vehicle.
13. The human powered transportation vehicle of claim 12, wherein
the removable portion is removable from the housing when the
housing is mounted to the human powered transportation vehicle.
14. The human powered transportation vehicle of claim 12, wherein
the mounting member comprises one or more holes or slots passing
through the housing and wherein the one or more holes or slots are
spaced to match one or more screw holes on a frame or other portion
of the human powered transportation vehicle.
15. The human powered transportation vehicle of claim 12, wherein
the mounting member comprises one or more holes, slots, or grooves
for receiving a zip tie for attachment to a frame or other portion
of the human powered transportation vehicle.
16. The human powered transportation vehicle of claim 11, wherein
the watertight seal protects one or more of: electrical connectors
for providing electrical communication between the removable
portion and the housing; and a charging port on the removable
portion for charging the battery.
17. The human powered transportation vehicle of claim 11, wherein
the watertight seal is formed between the housing and the removable
portion at least in part by an elastomer material on one or more of
the housing and the removable portion.
18. The human powered transportation vehicle of claim 11, wherein
the sensor component comprises one or more of a microcontroller, a
positioning system receiver, an accelerometer, a thermometer, a
compass, and a barometer.
19. The human powered transportation vehicle of claim 11, wherein
the radio is configured to communicate the route information to a
remote computing device comprising a portable computing device
traveling with the human powered transportation vehicle or is
configured to communicate the route information to a remote
computing device via a portable computing device traveling with the
human powered transportation vehicle, wherein the portable
computing device communicates the route information to a server or
computing device over a wireless network.
20. The human powered transportation vehicle of claim 11, wherein
the coupling interface also includes a Universal Serial Bus (USB)
port.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
The present disclosure relates to activity tracking and more
particularly relates to tracking routes and activity on a bicycle
or other human powered transportation vehicle.
BACKGROUND
Human powered transportation vehicles, such as bicycles, can be
pedaled or otherwise powered by human riders to provide
transportation. Bicycles and other human powered transportation
vehicles have been gaining popularity and provide for a significant
amount of leisure, commuter, or commercial transportation. In fact,
the number of bicyclists in cities is growing as a year-over-year
trend. In some cases, it is useful or even necessary for bicyclists
or bicycle owners to track commute or riding activities. This data
may be useful for both for personal interests as well as the
interests of city planners, automobile makers, etc.
Users of human powered transportation vehicles need a data
collection system that is both safe and secure. At the same time,
these users need a device that is discrete so as to not draw extra
attention to the human powered transportation vehicle thus
providing an added incentive for a would-be thief to steal the
human powered transportation vehicle.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example system for
collecting data for the use and routes of a human powered
transportation vehicle.
FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram illustrating an activity
tracker, according to one embodiment.
FIG. 3 is a perspective top view of an activity tracker, according
to one embodiment.
FIG. 4 is a perspective bottom view of an activity tracker,
according to one embodiment.
FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an activity tracker with a
removable portion removed, according to one embodiment.
FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a removable portion removed,
according to one embodiment.
FIGS. 7A-7C illustrate views during coupling of a removable portion
with a housing of an activity tracker, according to one
embodiment.
FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an activity tracker mounted on a
bicycle frame, according to one embodiment.
FIG. 9 is a perspective side view of an activity tracker and water
bottle cage mounted on a bicycle frame, according to one
embodiment.
FIG. 10 is a perspective side view of an activity tracker with
integrated pedal cadence sensor mounted on a bicycle frame,
according to one embodiment.
FIG. 11 is a schematic flow chart diagram illustrating a method for
obtaining route information including pedal cadence information,
according to one embodiment.
FIG. 12 is a block diagram illustrating an example computing device
in accordance with the teachings and principles of the
disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Applicants have developed and herein present systems, methods, and
devices for gathering information about routes or activity for
bicycles or other human powered transportation vehicles. According
to one embodiment, an activity tracker may be mounted or integrated
into a bicycle for collecting data. The activity tracker may also
be referred to herein as a data collection device. The activity
tracker may enable connected bicycle applications and systems to
provide highly valuable data to consumers and original equipment
manufacturers (OEMs) alike. In one embodiment, the activity tracker
uses a wireless connection and bicycle motion to properly connect
over Bluetooth and stream data to a user's phone or directly to the
cloud. In another embodiment, the activity tracker stores data
locally and periodically synchronizes with another device or system
using a cable or wireless interface. Because the activity tracker,
or a portion of the activity tracker, may remain with a bicycle
when it is locked or left in a public location, the activity
tracker may have a discrete profile so as to not draw extra
attention to limit providing an added incentive for a thief to
steal the bicycle.
According to one embodiment, the activity tracker may be securely
attached to a bicycle or other human transportation vehicle. In one
embodiment, the activity tracker does not need to be removed from
the bicycle for synchronization, data communication, or recharging.
For example, the activity tracker may be rigidly attached to the
bicycle using a water bottle cage having holes or secure zip ties
anywhere on the frame. Locking bolts or secure zip ties may prevent
a thief from taking or stealing the activity tracker. In one
embodiment, the activity tracker includes a removable battery pack
so that the device can be recharged without having to remove the
activity tracker itself or a main portion of the activity tracker.
The activity tracker or data collection device may have a wireless
transceiver so that the data collected from the bicycle can be
transmitted to a user's smart phone (e.g., via Bluetooth) or to a
remote server (e.g., via a wireless mobile network such as a
cellular network).
In one embodiment, the activity tracker includes a mounting member
or mechanism for attaching or mounting the activity tracker to a
bicycle or other human powered transportation vehicle. In one
embodiment, the mounting member may be configured for attachment to
a bicycle using standardized holes and hole spacing to match a
water bottle holder. Many bicycles, as manufactured, use the same
spacing and size for screw/bolt holes that can be used for mounting
water bottle cages. In one embodiment, the design utilizes this
common interface such that a data collection device can be
installed on almost any bicycle. The activity tracker device can be
installed with normal bolts or tamper-resistant bolts to limit
chances that the device will be stolen. Alternatively or
additionally, the activity tracker may include zip tie holes
integrated into a chassis or housing of the activity tracker so
that the activity tracker can be securely installed anywhere else
on the bicycle (or other human powered transportation vehicle) in
the absence of standardized water bottle cage holes. In one
embodiment, a water bottle cage may be mounted on top of the
activity tracker, thus allowing a cyclist or other rider to easily
bring water bottles with them.
In one embodiment, the activity tracker comprises a removable
battery. The activity tracker may include a removable portion that
includes a rechargeable battery so that the rest of the activity
tracker can remain on the bicycle (e.g., securely mounted) while
the battery is recharged. Also, because the battery is removable,
there may be no need to bring the bicycle (or the whole activity
tracker or chassis/housing) to a location where an electrical
outlet or charging port is available. For example, the bicycle and
activity tracker may be able to remain in a bicycle storage
location, such as a garage, shed, or the like, where no electrical
power is available. The battery pack, or removable portion, may
include or form an environmental seal with the housing or chassis
of the activity tracker to protect from water, dirt, or other
environmental conditions.
In one embodiment, the removable portion includes electrodes for
providing selective electrical communication between the battery
and a remaining portion of the activity tracker. Similarly, the
electrodes may selectively establish electrical communication with
a battery charger. In one embodiment, the electrodes may include
exposed conductive surfaces, electrode posts, or the like. In one
embodiment, the removable portion may include a universal serial
bus (USB) port for charging the battery. In one embodiment, a USB
port, charging electrodes, or the like are surrounded by an
elastomer or seal material that provides an environmental seal. The
housing and removable portion may include attachment or interaction
mechanisms to hold the removable portion firmly attached and
against the housing to maintain the seal. Similarly, the removable
portion, when attached, is held firmly so that the battery does not
fall off or become electrically disconnected during riding or
transportation.
According to one embodiment, an activity tracker includes a pedal
cadence sensor. Cyclists, including recreational and commuter
cyclists, often care about pedal cadence as they ride. Pedal
cadence can be useful in measuring rider performance. In one
embodiment, pedal cadence may also be useful to embedded software
of an activity tracker in order to detect whether or not a rider is
actively riding the bicycle (e.g., versus riding on a train or
transporting a bicycle). Embodiments disclosed herein may include
an activity tracker that includes a pedal sensor. With the activity
tracker mounted on a frame of the bicycle (e.g., using zip ties or
a water bottle holder mount) the activity tracker may provide a
frame-mounted pedal proximity sensor, which resides in a main body
(or housing) of a data collection device or activity tracker. A
light-based or magnetic based sensor embedded in the main housing
of the activity tracker may be used to detect the proximity of a
pedal and thereby produce (for example) an average pedal rotation
speed. Pedal rotation may also useful from an internal operation
perspective. For example, the activity tracker may only track/log
data when it is detected that the rider is pedaling. An activity
tracker with a built-in pedal proximity sensor may allow a user to
omit installation/addition of a separate pedal cadence sensor. In
this case, the rider needs only install the activity tracker to
meet multiple needs.
The term "human powered transportation vehicle," as used herein, is
given to mean any type of transportation vehicle whose movement is
powered by human input. Example human powered transportation
vehicles may include vehicles such as a bicycle, recumbent bicycle,
tricycle, pedal powered boat, or other pedal powered vehicle.
Examples of other types of human powered transportation vehicles
include scooters, skateboards, or the like. Some examples provided
herein are given with respect to certain types of human powered
transportation devices, such as with respect to a bicycle. However,
such examples are given by way of example only and it is
contemplated within the scope of the present disclosure that
examples given with respect to one type of human transportation
device may be applied to other types of human transportation
devices.
Further embodiments and examples will be discussed in relation to
the figures below.
Turning to the figures, FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating
a system 100 for obtaining, tracking, and/or storing route data,
activity, data or any other data gathered for a bicycle or human
powered transportation vehicle. The system 100 includes an activity
tracker 102 device mounted on a human powered transportation
vehicle. The activity tracker 102 may gather route data or any
other information about the use, location, or riding of the human
powered transportation vehicle. In one embodiment, the activity
tracker 102 transmits the route data or other data for remote
storage on an activity data system 104. The activity data system
104 may store and/or provide access to stored activity data. The
activity data system 104 may store data in a database 106 or other
data store. In one embodiment, the activity tracker 102 may
transmit data to the activity data system 104 via communication
node 108, such as a wireless access point, base station of a
cellular communications network, or the like. The activity data
system 104 may forward the data for storage via a network 110, such
as the Internet.
In one embodiment, the activity tracker 102 may include a radio
that is configured to communicate with a smart phone 112 or other
portable communication device of a user. For example, the activity
tracker 102 may transmit route data or other data to the smart
phone 112, which may store the data or forward the data on to the
activity data system 104. The smart phone 112 may include an
application that is configured to receive, store, and/or access
data. In one embodiment, the application may provide an interface
for data visualization, route information, activity data, or other
information about the riding activity of a user on one or more
human powered transportation vehicles. For example, the application
on the smart phone 112 may allow a user to access or view data
stored locally on the smart phone 112 and/or data stored by the
activity data system 104. In one embodiment, all data for a user, a
plurality of users, a bicycle, or fleet of bicycles may be stored
by the activity data system 104 for later access or analysis.
Turning to FIG. 2, a schematic block diagram is shown illustrating
example components of an activity tracker 102. In the depicted
embodiment, the activity tracker 102 includes a sensor component
202, a housing 204, one or more mounting members 206, a transceiver
208, a microcontroller 210, a removable portion 212, and a coupling
interface 214.
The sensor component 202 obtains sensor data regarding the usage of
a human powered transportation vehicle, such as a bicycle. The
sensor data may include information about a route traveled by the
human powered transportation vehicle, such as information about a
location, path, temperature, altitude, pedal cadence, time,
vibration or acceleration information, or other information
gathered by one or more sensors. The sensor component 202 may store
the route information or sensor data in a memory of the activity
tracker 102 or sensor component 202. In one embodiment, the route
information may include any type of information about the usage of
a bicycle or human powered transportation vehicle on which the
activity tracker 102 is mounted or with which the activity tracker
102 is traveling. For example, bicycle riders may wish to see
information about distance traveled for a trip, time duration for a
trip, altitude gained or lost, a map of a route, pedal cadence
during riding of one or more routes, acceleration during a route,
or any other information about the conditions, location, or route
traveled by a rider. In one embodiment, the sensor component 202
may also detect the occurrence of events. For example, the sensor
component 202 may detect events such as the presence of a rider on
the human powered transportation vehicle, the beginning of a trip,
the ending of a trip, or other events that occur during riding of a
human powered transportation vehicle.
The sensor component 202 may include one or more sensors 216 that
are used to obtain data or information about the usage or routes of
a human powered transportation vehicle. In one embodiment, the
sensors 216 include a positioning system receiver, such as a
receiver for a global positioning system (GPS), global navigation
satellite system (GLONASS), cellular network positioning system, or
any other positioning system. The positioning system receiver may
be used to obtain information about a geographic location of the
activity tracker 102 (and thus a corresponding human transportation
device) such as latitude, longitude, altitude, or the like. In one
embodiment, the sensors 216 include an accelerometer for detecting
acceleration events, orientation of the human powered
transportation vehicle (e.g., leaning, upright, or the like),
bumps, impacts, or other changes in velocity or position of the
activity tracker. In one embodiment, the sensors 216 include a
thermometer for detecting a current temperature at or near the
activity tracker 102. In one embodiment, the sensors 216 include a
compass, such as an electronic or magnetic compass, for determining
a geographic orientation or heading of the activity tracker 102. In
one embodiment, the sensors 216 include a barometer for detecting a
current altitude, weather condition, or the like about a current
location of the activity tracker 102. In one embodiment, the
sensors 216 include a humidity sensor for detecting a current
humidity or weather condition at a location of the activity tracker
102. The sensors 216 may be integrated as part of and/or within the
sensor component 202 or activity tracker 102 for simplicity and
robust operation. In one embodiment, one or more of the sensors 216
may be located separate from or external to the sensor component
202 and/or the activity tracker 102. For example, external sensors
may communicate with and provide sensor data to the sensor
component 202.
In one embodiment, the sensor component 202 includes a pedal
cadence sensor 218. See FIG. 10 and associated discussion.
According to one embodiment, the pedal cadence sensor 218 is
integrated with the activity tracker 102 so that a separate device
and/or mounting location are not needed to obtain information about
pedal cadence. In one embodiment, the pedal cadence sensor 218 may
include a light-based or magnetic based sensor that detects a
pedal, or corresponding sensor or trigger portion on a pedal. Based
on detected proximity, change in proximity, and/or cycle of
detected peaks in proximity, the pedal cadence sensor 218 may
calculate a pedal rotation speed. The sensor component 202 may use
the pedal cadence data to determine an average pedal rate of a
rider. Based on the pedal rate or the pedal cadence sensor 218, the
sensor component 202 may be able to determine whether a rider is
currently riding on the human powered transportation vehicle. In
one embodiment, the sensor component 202 only obtains and/or stores
sensor data when it detects that a rider is riding a bicycle or
human powered transportation vehicle that the activity tracker 102
is riding with or mounted on.
The housing 204 provides a structural and/or protective cover for
housing one or more components of the activity tracker 102. The
housing 204 may include an exterior cover in which other
components, such as the sensor component 202 and transceiver 208
are mounted or secured. The housing 204 may also provide a
structural chassis on which other portions of the activity tracker
102 can be mounted, secured, or coupled to provide a rigid
structural body for other components. The housing 204 may include
or form one or more mounting members for securing the housing 204
and/or the activity tracker 102 to a bicycle or human powered
transportation vehicle. An example housing 204 is illustrated in
FIGS. 3-8.
The mounting members 206 may include mechanical shapes or features
formed by a chassis, housing 204, or other portion of the activity
tracker 102 for mounting or securing the activity tracker 102 to a
bicycle or human powered transportation vehicle. See, for example,
FIGS. 3-4 and 8. In one embodiment, a mounting member 206 may
include one or more holes or slots passing through a housing 204 or
chassis of the activity tracker 102. The holes or slots may be
spaced to match a bottle cage mounting location on a bicycle. For
example, bicycles may include a standardized spacing, hole size,
and locations for bolt holes for mounting hardware or accessories,
such as a bottle cage, a holder for a pump, or the like. In
embodiments where the mounting members 206 include holes or slots
with a spacing to match standardized mounts, the activity tracker
102 may be easily and securely mounted to bicycles or human powered
transportation vehicles with matching mounting locations. In one
embodiment, a mounting member 206 may include one or more holes,
slots, or grooves for receiving a zip tie for attachment to a frame
of the bicycle or human powered transportation vehicle. The
mounting members 206 may be integrated within the housing 204 or
chassis of the activity tracker 102. Using locking or anti-tamper
bolts or zip ties, the activity tracker 102 may be mounted to a
bicycle or human powered transportation vehicle in a way that
limits or prevents theft or unauthorized removal of the activity
tracker 102.
The transceiver 208 is configured to provide wired or wireless
communication between the activity tracker 102 and another
computing or communication device. In one embodiment, the
transceiver 208 includes a radio which may be used to communicate
route data or sensor data to another device. For example, the
transceiver 208 may include a radio for communicating over a
cellular, wide area, or other mobile network (such as a 3GPP,
WiMax, or other wireless network). In one embodiment, the
transceiver 208 may be used for synchronizing or uploaded route
data, sensor data, or other data gathered by the sensor component
202 for storage and/or access at a cloud location or remote
storage. As another example, the transceiver 208 may include a
radio for communicating with a nearby device, such as a Bluetooth,
Zigbee, or other short distance communication standard. In one
embodiment, the transceiver 208 is configured to communicate route
data, sensor data, or other data gathered by the sensor component
202 to a smart phone or other computing device traveling with the
activity tracker 102 (or a human powered transportation device with
which the activity tracker 102 is traveling). The smart phone or
other device may then store the data locally and/or forward the
data to a remote or cloud location for storage and later
access.
The microcontroller 210 may include a processor for controlling
operation of the activity tracker 102. For example, the
microcontroller 210 may perform processing, data storage, data
access, or other functions for any of the other components of the
activity tracker 102. In one embodiment, the microcontroller 210
may include a low power processor for coordinating, triggering, or
performing operations on behalf of or based on the components of
the activity tracker 102.
The removable portion 212 includes a portion of the activity
tracker 102 that is removable from a housing 204 or chassis of the
activity tracker 102. See, for example, FIGS. 3-7. For example, the
removable portion 212 may be selectively coupled or decoupled from
the activity tracker 102 at a coupling interface 214. The removable
portion 212 may include a battery 220 and a power/charging
interface 222. The battery 220 may include a rechargeable battery
or battery pack. The power/charging interface 222 may include
contacts or electrode posts for providing electrical communication
with the battery 220. For example, the power/charging interface 222
may interact or contact electrical surfaces or contacts on the
coupling interface 214, when coupled, to power the sensor component
202, transceiver 208, microcontroller 210, and/or other components
of the activity tracker 102. The power/charging interface 222 may
include a physical port or contact for charging the battery 220. In
one embodiment, the power/charging interface 222 includes a USB
interface. In one embodiment, the power/charging interface 222
includes a wireless charging interface such as a wireless charging
coil. In one embodiment, the power/charging interface 222 may
include a single interface (e.g., set of contacts) for both
providing power to the sensor component 202 and receiving power for
charging the battery 220. In one embodiment, the power/charging
interface 222 may include two interfaces (e.g., two sets of
contacts): one for providing power to the sensor component 202; and
another for receiving power for charging the battery 220.
The coupling interface 214 comprises physical mechanisms and/or
features for securing the removable portion 212 to the rest of the
activity tracker 102. See FIGS. 5-7, which illustrate an example
coupling interface 214 between a removable portion 212 and a
housing 204 of an activity tracker 102. In one embodiment, the
coupling interface 214 allows the removable portion 212 to be
removable from the activity tracker 102 and/or the housing 204 when
the housing 204 is mounted to the bicycle. For example, the
mounting member 206 may not be located on the removable portion 212
so that any bolt, zip ties, or other fasteners or mechanisms used
to attach the activity tracker to a bicycle or human powered
transportation vehicle do not interfere with removal of the
removable portion 212.
The coupling interface 214 may provide a watertight or waterproof
seal for protecting electronic or electrical components of the
activity tracker 102 from water, humidity, dirt, or other
environmental conditions. For example, the coupling interface 214
may provide a watertight seal that protects the power/charging
interface 222 from water or rain. The coupling interface 214 or the
removable portion 212 may include an elastomer material that, when
coupled, are pressed together to form a water tight seal around a
region where the power/charging interface 222 and/or other
electrical components of the removable portion 212 or coupling
interface 214 are located. In one embodiment, the coupling
interface 214 provides a water tight seal around electrical
connectors for providing electrical communication between the
removable portion 212 and components in the housing 204. In one
embodiment, the coupling interface 214 provides a water tight seal
around a charging port on the removable portion 212 for charging
the battery 220.
The components 202-222 are given by way of illustration only and
may not all be included in all embodiments. In fact, some
embodiments may include only one or any combination of two or more
of the components 202-222. Furthermore, some of the components
202-222 may be located outside the activity tracker 102, such as
within separate devices or sensors that are in communication with
the activity tracker.
Turning now to FIGS. 3-11, example embodiments of an appearance and
configuration of an activity tracker 102 are provided. FIG. 3 is a
perspective top view of an activity tracker 102. The activity
tracker 102 comprises an elongated housing 204 with mounting
members that form holes 302 for fastening/mounting the activity
tracker 102 to an accessory mount of a bicycle or other human
powered transportation vehicle. In one embodiment, the holes 302
may form a slotted or un-slotted counter sunk M5 screw boss for
tolerance. For example, a slotted hole or boss may allow for
accommodations in slight differences in distances between mounting
locations for screws. A removable portion 212 is shown in an
attached configuration to the housing 204. The activity tracker 102
also includes a power/control button 304 and a LED indicator area
306. The power/control button 304 may be used to power the activity
tracker 102 on or off, trigger pairing with another device, trigger
sensor data tracking, or the like. The LED indicator area 306 may
provide a region where LED indicators may light up to indicate a
current status of the activity tracker 102. Example statuses may
include, powered on, powered off, paired, battery low, or the
like.
FIG. 4 is a perspective bottom view of an activity tracker 102. The
bottom end of the holes 302 is shown. Additionally, the activity
tracker 102 also includes zip tie holes 402, which pass through a
portion of the bottom of the housing 204. The zip tie holes 402 may
allow a zip tie to pass through the zip tie holes 402 and around a
frame or bar member of a bicycle or human powered transportation
vehicle to secure the activity tracker 102. For example, if no
water bottle mounts are available, the zip tie holes 402 may be
used. The activity tracker 102 also includes elastomer ridges 404.
The elastomer ridges 404 act as a rubber protector for the paint or
a surface of a bicycle frame or frame of a human powered
transportation vehicle. In one embodiment, the elastomer ridges 402
are part of an internal seal of the activity tracker 102 to
mitigate water and dust intrusion.
FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the activity tracker 102 with the
removable portion 212 removed so that it is not coupled to the
housing 204. A coupling member 502 is shown that extends from the
housing 204 and includes locking members 504 for engaging and
locking the removable portion 212 to the housing 204. A coupling
interface on the housing portion is also shown. The coupling
interface includes electrical contacts 506 for connecting with a
battery or other electronic component in the removable portion 212.
In one embodiment, the electrical contacts 506 include pads
configured to contact terminals or posts on the removable portion
212. For example, the electrical contacts 506 may include spring
loaded pins or pads (such as Pogo terminals). Alternatively or
additionally, a USB port or interface may be included for
connecting to a corresponding USB port on the removable portion
212. The electrical contacts 506, and/or other electrical or
communication ports on the housing 204, may be surrounded by a
sealing material 508. The sealing material 508 may include an
elastomer or other material that forms a water tight seal with the
removable portion to protect the electrical contacts 506 from water
or environmental conditions.
FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a removable portion 212. The
removable portion 212 is shown in an uncoupled configuration where
the removable portion is removed from a housing 204 or remaining
portion of an activity tracker 102. The removable portion 212
includes terminals 602 in electrical communication with a battery
within the removable portion 212. The terminals 602 may be sized
and position to contact electrical contacts on a housing 204 (such
as the electrical contacts 506 shown in FIG. 5). The terminals 602
may include spring loaded terminals (such as PoGo terminals). The
terminals 602 may be used to provide power to components housed
within a housing 204. The terminals 602 may be used to receive
power from a power source, such as a battery charger, to replenish
electrical energy within a battery. In one embodiment, the
removable portion 212 includes a USB port 604. The USB port 604 may
also provide electrical communication with the battery so that
charging of the battery may be performed using a USB cable or port
on a computing device or charging device. In one embodiment, the
removable portion 212 comprises a ridge or other physical portion
corresponding to a seal on the housing 204 to provide a water tight
seal to protect the terminals 602 and/or the USB port 604.
FIGS. 7A-7C illustrate coupling of a removable portion 212 with the
housing 204, according to one embodiment. FIG. 7A illustrates the
removable portion 212 in an uncoupled state, but is resting on the
coupling member 502. FIG. 7B illustrates a user, using a finger 702
to press the removable portion 212 down and toward the housing. In
FIG. 7C, the removable portion 212 is in a coupled state and locked
in place by the coupling member 502. To remove a user may place
their finger 702 under an edge of the removable portion (for
example, at the location indicated at 704) and pry upward to unlock
the removable portion from the coupling member 502. These FIGS.
show the attachment mechanism for the battery pack (or removable
portion). As the removable portion is installed into the main
housing, it is forced forward thus pressing against the seal (see
FIG. 5). The applied force around the seal may help ensure
protection against water intrusion.
FIG. 8 is a perspective diagram illustrating an activity tracker
102 mounted on a frame 802 of a human powered transportation
vehicle. Bolts 804 are shown securing the housing 204 to the frame
802. The removable portion 212 is removable because the bolts do
not pass through the removable portion 212. In one embodiment, the
bolts 804 may include tamper resistant bolts so that the housing
204 remains attached and limits an unauthorized user from removing
the housing 204. The removable portion 212 may be removed from the
housing 204 and frame 802 to allow a battery to be recharged.
FIG. 9 is a perspective diagram illustrating a stacked
configuration for an activity tracker 102 and water bottle cage 902
on a frame 802. For example, elongated bolts that pass through both
the water bottle cage 902 (or other accessory) and the activity
tracker 102 may be used to secure both the water bottle cage 902
and the activity tracker 102 to the frame 802 at the same mounting
location. The water bottle cage 902 holds a water bottle 904 for
use by a rider. Thus, the activity tracker 102 may be used without
any loss of mounting locations for use by other accessories. A
removable portion 212 may still be removable even with the activity
tracker 102 and/or the water bottle cage 902 mounted on the frame
802.
FIG. 10 is a perspective side view of an activity tracker 102
mounted on a frame 1002 of a human powered transportation vehicle,
such as a bicycle. The activity tracker 102 includes an integrated
pedal cadence sensor 1004 (which may or may not be visible
externally to the activity tracker 102). The pedal cadence sensor
1004 may detect the proximity of a pedal 1006 or pedal crank arm
1008 using a light-based or magnetic-based sensor. For example, a
sensor trigger may be positioned on the pedal 1006 or pedal crank
arm 1008 to activate the pedal cadence sensor 1004. For example,
the sensor trigger may include a magnet, a colored sticker or
paint, or other material or item that can be detected by the pedal
cadence sensor 1004. In one embodiment, the position of the pedal
cadence sensor 1004 on or in the activity tracker 102 is configured
to position the pedal cadence sensor 1004 laterally from a pedal
1006 or pedal crank arm 1008 of a bicycle. For example, accessory
mounts (such as water bottle mounts) are often positioned on a
vertical or angled down tube extending between a sprocket shaft and
a seat post or the handle bars of a bicycle. The position of the
pedal cadence sensor 1004 with respect to holes with mounting
members may be configured to place the pedal cadence sensor 1004 at
a location close enough (e.g., horizontally near) to the pedal 1006
or pedal crank arm 1008 to sense a magnet or other sensor
trigger.
FIG. 11 is a schematic flow chart diagram of a method 1100 for
activity tracking for a human powered transportation vehicle. The
method 1100 includes determining at 1102 whether the human powered
transportation vehicle is being ridden based on detected pedal
rotation. The method 110 further includes obtaining at 1104, in
response to determining that the human powered transportation
vehicle is being ridden, route data comprising pedal rotation data
using an activity tracker with an integrated pedal cadence sensor,
such as pedal cadence sensor 1004. The method 1100 also includes
wirelessly transmitting at 1106 the route data and the pedal
rotation data to a communication or computing device.
Referring now to FIG. 12, a block diagram of an example computing
device 1200 is illustrated. Computing device 1200 may be used to
perform various procedures, such as those discussed herein.
Computing device 1200 can function as an activity tracker, server,
a client, or any other computing entity. Computing device 1200 can
perform various monitoring functions as discussed herein, and can
execute one or more application programs, such as the application
programs or functionality described herein. Computing device 1200
can be any of a wide variety of computing devices, such as a
desktop computer, a notebook computer, a server computer, a
handheld computer, tablet computer and the like.
Computing device 1200 includes one or more processor(s) 1202, one
or more memory device(s) 1204, one or more interface(s) 1206, one
or more mass storage device(s) 1208, one or more Input/Output (I/O)
device(s) 1210, and a display device 1230 all of which are coupled
to a bus 1212. Processor(s) 1202 include one or more processors or
controllers that execute instructions stored in memory device(s)
1204 and/or mass storage device(s) 1208. Processor(s) 1202 may also
include various types of computer-readable media, such as cache
memory.
Memory device(s) 1204 include various computer-readable media, such
as volatile memory (e.g., random access memory (RAM) 1214) and/or
nonvolatile memory (e.g., read-only memory (ROM) 1216). Memory
device(s) 1204 may also include rewritable ROM, such as Flash
memory.
Mass storage device(s) 1208 include various computer readable
media, such as magnetic tapes, magnetic disks, optical disks,
solid-state memory (e.g., Flash memory), and so forth. As shown in
FIG. 12, a particular mass storage device is a hard disk drive
1224. Various drives may also be included in mass storage device(s)
1208 to enable reading from and/or writing to the various computer
readable media. Mass storage device(s) 1208 include removable media
1226 and/or non-removable media.
I/O device(s) 1210 include various devices that allow data and/or
other information to be input to or retrieved from computing device
1200. Example I/O device(s) 1210 include cursor control devices,
keyboards, keypads, microphones, monitors or other display devices,
speakers, printers, network interface cards, modems, and the
like.
Display device 1230 includes any type of device capable of
displaying information to one or more users of computing device
1200. Examples of display device 1230 include a monitor, display
terminal, video projection device, and the like.
Interface(s) 1206 include various interfaces that allow computing
device 1200 to interact with other systems, devices, or computing
environments. Example interface(s) 1206 may include any number of
different network interfaces 1220, such as interfaces to local area
networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), wireless networks, and
the Internet. Other interface(s) include user interface 1218 and
peripheral device interface 1222. The interface(s) 1206 may also
include one or more user interface elements 1218. The interface(s)
1206 may also include one or more peripheral interfaces such as
interfaces for printers, pointing devices (mice, track pad, or any
suitable user interface now known to those of ordinary skill in the
field, or later discovered), keyboards, and the like.
Bus 1212 allows processor(s) 1202, memory device(s) 1204,
interface(s) 1206, mass storage device(s) 1208, and I/O device(s)
1210 to communicate with one another, as well as other devices or
components coupled to bus 1212. Bus 1212 represents one or more of
several types of bus structures, such as a system bus, PCI bus,
IEEE bus, USB bus, and so forth.
For purposes of illustration, programs and other executable program
components are shown herein as discrete blocks, although it is
understood that such programs and components may reside at various
times in different storage components of computing device 1200, and
are executed by processor(s) 1202. Alternatively, the systems and
procedures described herein can be implemented in hardware, or a
combination of hardware, software, and/or firmware. For example,
one or more application specific integrated circuits (ASICs) can be
programmed to carry out one or more of the systems and procedures
described herein.
Examples
The following examples pertain to further embodiments.
Example 1 is a device that includes a sensor component, a radio, a
housing, and a removable portion. The sensor component is
configured to obtain bicycle route information based on one or more
sensors. The radio is configured to wirelessly communicate the
bicycle route information to a remote computing device. The housing
includes at least a portion of the sensor component and the radio.
The removable portion includes a battery. The removable portion and
the housing, when coupled, create a watertight seal to protect
electronic components of the device.
In Example 2, the housing in Example 1 includes a mounting member
for mounting the housing to a bicycle.
In Example 3, the removable portion in Example 2 is removable from
the housing when the housing is mounted to the bicycle.
In Example 4, the mounting member in any of Examples 2-3 includes
one or more holes or slots passing through the housing and wherein
the one or more holes or slots are spaced to match a bottle cage
mounting location on a bicycle.
In Example 5, the mounting member in any of Examples 2-4 includes
one or more holes, slots, or grooves for receiving a zip tie for
attachment to a frame of the bicycle.
In Example 6, the watertight seal in any of Examples 1-5 protects
one or more of: electrical connectors for providing electrical
communication between the removable portion and the housing; and a
charging port on the removable portion for charging the
battery.
In Example 7, the watertight seal in any of Examples 1-6 is formed
between the housing and the removable portion at least in part by
an elastomer material on one or more of the housing and the
removable portion.
In Example 8, the device in any of Examples 1-7 further includes
one or more of a microcontroller, a positioning system receiver, an
accelerometer, a thermometer, a compass, and a barometer.
In Example 9, the radio in any of Examples 1-8 is configured to
communicate the bicycle route information to a remote computing
device comprising a portable computing device traveling with the
bicycle.
In Example 10, the radio in any of Examples 1-9 is configured to
communicate the bicycle route information to a remote computing
device via a portable computing device traveling with the bicycle.
The portable computing device communicates the bicycle route
information to a server or computing device over a wireless
network.
Example 11 is a human powered transportation vehicle that includes
an activity tracker. The activity tracker may be attached to or
integrated with the human powered transportation vehicle. The
activity tracker includes a sensor component, a radio, a housing,
and a removable portion. The sensor component is configured to
obtain route information for the human powered transportation
vehicle. The radio is configured to wirelessly communicate the
route information to a remote computing device. The housing
includes or houses at least a portion of the sensor component and
the radio. The removable portion includes a battery. The removable
portion and the housing, when coupled, create a watertight seal to
protect electronic components of the activity tracker.
In Example 12, the housing in Example 11 includes a mounting member
for securing the housing to the human powered transportation
vehicle.
In Example 13, the removable portion in Example 12 is removable
from the housing when the housing is mounted to the human powered
transportation vehicle.
In Example 14, the mounting member in any of Examples 12-13
includes one or more holes or slots passing through the housing and
wherein the one or more holes or slots are spaced to match one or
more screw holes on a frame or other portion of the human powered
transportation vehicle.
In Example 15, the mounting member in any of Examples 12-14
includes one or more holes, slots, or grooves for receiving a zip
tie for attachment to a frame or other portion of the human powered
transportation vehicle.
In Example 16, the watertight seal in any of Examples 11-15
protects one or more of: electrical connectors for providing
electrical communication between the removable portion and the
housing; and a charging port on the removable portion for charging
the battery.
In Example 17, the watertight seal in any of Examples 11-16 is
formed between the housing and the removable portion at least in
part by an elastomer material on one or more of the housing and the
removable portion.
In Example 18, the sensor component in any of Examples 11-17
includes one or more of a microcontroller, a positioning system
receiver, an accelerometer, a thermometer, a compass, and a
barometer.
In Example 19, the radio in any of Examples 11-18 is configured to
communicate the route information to a remote computing device
comprising a portable computing device traveling with the human
powered transportation vehicle.
In Example 20, the radio in any of Examples 11-19 is configured to
communicate the human powered transportation vehicle route
information to a remote computing device via a portable computing
device traveling with the human powered transportation vehicle. The
portable computing device communicates the human powered
transportation vehicle route information to a server or computing
device over a wireless network.
Example 21 is a system or device that includes means for
implementing a method, system, or device as in any of Examples
1-20.
In the above disclosure, reference has been made to the
accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof, and in which is
shown by way of illustration specific implementations in which the
disclosure may be practiced. It is understood that other
implementations may be utilized and structural changes may be made
without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
References in the specification to "one embodiment," "an
embodiment," "an example embodiment," etc., indicate that the
embodiment described may include a particular feature, structure,
or characteristic, but every embodiment may not necessarily include
the particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Moreover,
such phrases are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment.
Further, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is
described in connection with an embodiment, it is submitted that it
is within the knowledge of one skilled in the art to affect such
feature, structure, or characteristic in connection with other
embodiments whether or not explicitly described.
As used herein, "autonomous vehicle" may be a vehicle that acts or
operates completely independent of a human driver; or may be a
vehicle that acts or operates independent of a human driver in some
instances while in other instances a human driver may be able to
operate the vehicle; or may be a vehicle that is predominantly
operated by a human driver, but with the assistance of an automated
driving/assistance system.
Implementations of the systems, devices, and methods disclosed
herein may comprise or utilize a special purpose or general-purpose
computer including computer hardware, such as, for example, one or
more processors and system memory, as discussed herein.
Implementations within the scope of the present disclosure may also
include physical and other computer-readable media for carrying or
storing computer-executable instructions and/or data structures.
Such computer-readable media can be any available media that can be
accessed by a general purpose or special purpose computer system.
Computer-readable media that store computer-executable instructions
are computer storage media (devices). Computer-readable media that
carry computer-executable instructions are transmission media.
Thus, by way of example, and not limitation, implementations of the
disclosure can comprise at least two distinctly different kinds of
computer-readable media: computer storage media (devices) and
transmission media.
Computer storage media (devices) includes RAM, ROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM,
solid state drives ("SSDs") (e.g., based on RAM), Flash memory,
phase-change memory ("PCM"), other types of memory, other optical
disk storage, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage
devices, or any other medium which can be used to store desired
program code means in the form of computer-executable instructions
or data structures and which can be accessed by a general purpose
or special purpose computer.
An implementation of the devices, systems, and methods disclosed
herein may communicate over a computer network. A "network" is
defined as one or more data links that enable the transport of
electronic data between computer systems and/or modules and/or
other electronic devices. When information is transferred or
provided over a network or another communications connection
(either hardwired, wireless, or a combination of hardwired or
wireless) to a computer, the computer properly views the connection
as a transmission medium. Transmissions media can include a network
and/or data links, which can be used to carry desired program code
means in the form of computer-executable instructions or data
structures and which can be accessed by a general purpose or
special purpose computer. Combinations of the above should also be
included within the scope of computer-readable media.
Computer-executable instructions comprise, for example,
instructions and data which, when executed at a processor, cause a
general purpose computer, special purpose computer, or special
purpose processing device to perform a certain function or group of
functions. The computer executable instructions may be, for
example, binaries, intermediate format instructions such as
assembly language, or even source code. Although the subject matter
has been described in language specific to structural features
and/or methodological acts, it is to be understood that the subject
matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to
the described features or acts described above. Rather, the
described features and acts are disclosed as example forms of
implementing the claims.
Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the disclosure may be
practiced in network computing environments with many types of
computer system configurations, including, an in-dash vehicle
computer, personal computers, desktop computers, laptop computers,
message processors, hand-held devices, multi-processor systems,
microprocessor-based or programmable consumer electronics, network
PCs, minicomputers, mainframe computers, mobile telephones, PDAs,
tablets, pagers, routers, switches, various storage devices, and
the like. The disclosure may also be practiced in distributed
system environments where local and remote computer systems, which
are linked (either by hardwired data links, wireless data links, or
by a combination of hardwired and wireless data links) through a
network, both perform tasks. In a distributed system environment,
program modules may be located in both local and remote memory
storage devices.
Further, where appropriate, functions described herein can be
performed in one or more of: hardware, software, firmware, digital
components, or analog components. For example, one or more
application specific integrated circuits (ASICs) can be programmed
to carry out one or more of the systems and procedures described
herein. Certain terms are used throughout the description and
claims to refer to particular system components. As one skilled in
the art will appreciate, components may be referred to by different
names. This document does not intend to distinguish between
components that differ in name, but not function.
It should be noted that the sensor embodiments discussed above may
comprise computer hardware, software, firmware, or any combination
thereof to perform at least a portion of their functions. For
example, a sensor may include computer code configured to be
executed in one or more processors, and may include hardware
logic/electrical circuitry controlled by the computer code. These
example devices are provided herein purposes of illustration, and
are not intended to be limiting. Embodiments of the present
disclosure may be implemented in further types of devices, as would
be known to persons skilled in the relevant art(s).
At least some embodiments of the disclosure have been directed to
computer program products comprising such logic (e.g., in the form
of software) stored on any computer useable medium. Such software,
when executed in one or more data processing devices, causes a
device to operate as described herein.
While various embodiments of the present disclosure have been
described above, it should be understood that they have been
presented by way of example only, and not limitation. It will be
apparent to persons skilled in the relevant art that various
changes in form and detail can be made therein without departing
from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Thus, the breadth and
scope of the present disclosure should not be limited by any of the
above-described exemplary embodiments, but should be defined only
in accordance with the following claims and their equivalents. The
foregoing description has been presented for the purposes of
illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive
or to limit the disclosure to the precise form disclosed. Many
modifications and variations are possible in light of the above
teaching. Further, it should be noted that any or all of the
aforementioned alternate implementations may be used in any
combination desired to form additional hybrid implementations of
the disclosure.
Further, although specific implementations of the disclosure have
been described and illustrated, the disclosure is not to be limited
to the specific forms or arrangements of parts so described and
illustrated. The scope of the disclosure is to be defined by the
claims appended hereto, any future claims submitted here and in
different applications, and their equivalents.
* * * * *